How To Buy a Used Car Part 1: The Importance of Reliability
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Car: Tips and Tricks
When it comes to buying a used car, let me tell you—reliability is everything. If you don’t do your homework, you could easily end up with a car that’s a nightmare to own. Some brands and models are riddled with issues, like Nissan’s infamous CVT transmissions, Hyundai and Kia engines that seize up prematurely, or Ford’s PowerShift transmissions that are notorious for repeated failures. Knowing how to buy a used car starts with checking the vehicle’s reliability, and I’m here to walk you through it.
Step 1: Avoid European Cars
European cars—like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen—might catch your eye with their style, comfort, and driving dynamics, but there’s a catch: they’re wallet-draining machines. Sure, they’re affordable on the used market, but the previous owners dumped them due to the steep repair bills and reliability concerns.
• Parts for European cars are more expensive than domestic or Asian vehicles— Parts for European cars often cost 1.5 to 2 times more than parts for mainstream brands like Ford. For example, an air suspension repair on a luxury European vehicle could easily run you thousands of dollars, while a similar repair on a domestic car might cost a fraction of that.
• European cars often require scan tools and even specialized mechanical tools— Most independent shops don’t own those tools, so you’ll be severely limited in the number of shops that can diagnose and fix your European vehicle.
• European cars fail more often as they rack up the miles—If you’ve ever wondered why the prices are so affordable on luxury European cars, it’s because they’re unreliable and need constant repairs. That’s why their owners got rid of them. I’ve seen multiple instances where a European car owner has to shell out $1,500 – $2,000 per year in unexpected repairs costs; and that’s over and above normal maintenance costs.
If you’re serious about learning how to buy a used car, take my advice: unless you have an endless budget, steer clear of European vehicles. They’re not bad cars when new, but their high repair and maintenance costs can quickly drain your finances.
Step 2: Avoid Known Unreliable Models
When buying a used car, reliability is non-negotiable. Some models are notorious for breaking down long before they should. For instance, Ford’s Focus with the PowerShift transmission, Hyundai’s defective engines, and Nissan’s CVTs are prime examples of what to avoid. These vehicles might seem like a good deal upfront, but the repair costs can easily exceed the car’s value.
So, how do you know if a car is reliable?
Leverage resources like CarComplaints.com, RepairPal.com, and Edmunds.com. These websites compile data on common issues, repair costs, and owner satisfaction to give you a clear picture of what you’re getting into. Learning how to buy a used car involves this kind of legwork—you can’t afford to skip it.
Also, use government data sites like the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). There you’ll find information on recalls and service bulletins. Here’s an example for a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. On the NHTSA site, you’ll see there are 9 safety-related recalls, 4 investigations into serious problems, 980 consumer complaints, and 223 Hyundai service bulletins addressing pattern failures. That’s an insane number of problems and complaints. In other words, if you don’t do your homework up-front, you could wind up owning one of these vehicles.
Step 3: Think Twice About Luxury Cars
Luxury vehicles are another potential money pit. Packed with advanced features like air suspensions, memory seats, and high-tech climate controls, these cars are fantastic when everything works—but when it doesn’t, you’re in for a world of hurt. A failed air suspension system, for instance, can cost almost $4,000. Even something as simple as a climate control malfunction might require replacing an entire control panel, which can set you back at least $1,000.
When you buy a used car, especially a luxury one, you need to be prepared for these added expenses. If your budget is tight, stick to non-luxury models to avoid unexpected financial stress.
Step 4: Consider the Downsides of AWD and 4WD
Everyone loves the idea of all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), especially in snowy regions. But here’s the thing: AWD and 4WD systems are not only more expensive to purchase, but they also have higher maintenance and repair costs. Worse, they don’t help with stopping or cornering in snow—just acceleration.
These systems also have specific requirements, like matching tire sizes precisely. If one tire gets damaged and can’t be repaired, you’ll have to replace all four to prevent damage to the drivetrain. Instead of splurging on an AWD vehicle, consider investing in winter tires for your two-wheel-drive car. Winter tires provide significantly better performance in snow and ice and cost far less than the premium for AWD or 4WD.
Your Game Plan for Buying a Used Car
If you’re serious about learning how to buy a used car, start by prioritizing reliability. Avoid European models, luxury vehicles, and any car with a reputation for major mechanical issues. Do your research using trusted resources to ensure you’re not signing up for endless repair bills. And remember, sometimes the simpler option—like a front-wheel-drive car with winter tires—is the smartest and most cost-effective choice.
Buying a used car doesn’t have to be a gamble if you approach it with the right mindset and tools. Trust me, a little research now can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to finding a reliable vehicle that fits your needs and budget.
Ready for more? See the next article in the series: How to buy a used car Part 2
Posted on by Rick Muscoplat